With November marking the celebration of National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, there’s no better time to explore the heartfelt work that takes place every single day at Trellis Supportive Care in Winston-Salem.
This year’s theme for the month of recognition – “We See the Whole You” – truly encompasses the Hospice mission of caring for the body but also nourishing the mind and spirit.
“Unlike anything else in healthcare, Hospice cares for not only a patient’s physical symptoms, but also the wholeness of the individual,” explains Trellis Supportive Care CEO Dr. Michael Lalor. “Most of the individuals we care for are part of a larger system at home – and our Hospice team really cares for the entire family unit – however they identify – and supports them fully.”
To nurture the mind, spirit and overall well being of the patient, complementary therapies add a unique dimension to the total care plan created by their interdisciplinary team. Provided by trained staff, volunteers and interns, these are non-invasive therapies such as music, art, massage and pet therapy, all utilized to give care and comfort beyond a patient’s physical needs.
A licensed massage therapist can provide gentle touch support and energy-based therapies that increase a patient’s physical comfort. These therapists address pain, anxiety, sleeplessness and isolation – all based on each patient’s unique circumstances.
Music therapists also work with patients at every stage of Hospice care using a variety of experiences that include listening to live music, songwriting and even improvisation. Especially in Hospice care, music therapy has always been a powerful tool for emotional and spiritual support, and the board certified music therapists at Trellis find music decreases anxiety and pain, and promotes relaxation.
With the option of pet therapy, patients and families can enjoy a visit with a volunteer and one of their highly trained animal companions. Animal assisted therapy can be an immensely soothing and comforting experience for patients feeling scared and anxious.
In addition to a chaplain – who is always a valued member of every interdisciplinary team – social workers are also available to assist patients and families with resources and support. That special bond and communication can be pivotal in overall comfort and well being.
When asked what he feels is most inspirational about the staff at Trellis Supportive Care, Dr. Lalor emphasizes their level of compassion that is simply immeasurable.
“One hundred percent of our people here – whether it’s those at the bedside or those working behind the scenes – are absolutely here for the right reasons,” he adds.
Senior Director of Public Relations Ann Gauthreaux explains how the staff goes above and beyond to seek out what’s really meaningful in the lives of each patient.
“For example, we recently had a patient who had restored cars, and we arranged for his family to bring his cars to the parking lot so he could enjoy them!” she shares. “Another couple had planned an anniversary trip to Paris they never got to take because the wife became ill. Our staff recreated an authentic Parisian scene in one of the rooms – with a bistro table and Eiffel Tower posters – to make that moment incredibly personal for them. Those extra efforts can bring closure and help a patient truly reflect on his or her life.”
For more information on the services at Trellis Supportive Care, and to donate or volunteer your time, visit trellissupport.org.Trellis Supportive Care is located at 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC, 336.768.3972. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @trellissupport.
